Shloka 40

Matsya Purana — Rite and Layout for Consecrating Ponds

Devanagari script

प्रत्येकं तु महामन्त्रैर् एव कृत्वा विधानतः एवं क्षपातिवाह्याथ विधियुक्तेन कर्मणा //

Transliteration

pratyekaṃ tu mahāmantrair eva kṛtvā vidhānataḥ evaṃ kṣapātivāhyātha vidhiyuktena karmaṇā //

Translation

But each act should be performed, in due order, only with the great mantras. In this way one should then pass the night, carrying it through by a rite executed according to the proper rule.

Word by Word

• pratyekam: each (act/step)

• tu: but/indeed

• mahāmantraiḥ: with great mantras

• eva: only/indeed

• kṛtvā: having done/performing

• vidhānataḥ: according to prescription/ritual injunction

• evaṃ: thus/in this way

• kṣapā: night

• ativāhya: having passed through/spent (the time)

• atha: then

• vidhiyuktena: accompanied by proper rule/regulated

• karmaṇā: by the ritual act/ceremony

Speaker

• Lord Matsya (in instruction to Vaivasvata Manu, probable ritual-context discourse)

Tags

• Mantra-vidhi
• Ritual procedure
• Karma-kanda
• Dharma
• Matsya Purana ritual rules

FAQs

What does this verse reveal about the creation or dissolution (Pralaya)?

This verse is not about pralaya; it emphasizes correct ritual performance—each step done with “mahāmantras” and in strict accordance with injunctions.

How does this verse relate to the duties of a King or Householder?

It frames dharmic duty as disciplined observance: a king or householder should carry out rites step-by-step with proper mantras and prescribed procedure, sustaining religious order through regulated practice.

What is the architectural or ritual significance mentioned here?

Ritually, it stresses mantra-governed, rule-bound execution of ceremonies; such “vidhi” is also foundational for consecrations and preparatory rites that often precede temple/structure undertakings in Purāṇic practice.